BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND You are approaching another vessel on crossing courses. She is about one mile distant and is on your starboard bow. You believe she will cross ahead of you but she sounds a whistle signal of five short blasts. Which action should you take?
• Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals (five short blasts meaning) • Responsibilities of stand-on vs give-way vessels in a crossing situation (Rule 15 and Rule 17) • Required actions when there is doubt or confusion about another vessel’s intentions
• What does a signal of five short and rapid blasts specifically mean, and what does that tell you about how the other vessel views the situation? • In a crossing situation, if there is any doubt about risk of collision or about the other vessel’s intentions, how should you adjust your course and/or speed? • Which option best restores a safe situation and removes doubt, rather than assuming that your original assessment was correct?
• Confirm the definition of five short blasts under Rule 34 and what it requires of you. • Check which options actually change the situation to make it safer (not just signal or make a very small change). • Verify whether simply holding course and speed is appropriate when another vessel has indicated doubt or misunderstanding.
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